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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with D’ondra of Work Boots & Glasses, a self-taught maker whose business journey started by kicking her husband's car out of the garage—literally. From building furniture to launching a fresh line of earrings and glassware, D’ondra shares how she turned her DIY spirit into a full-blown brand.

We talk chocolate stashes, market wins and fails, creative chaos, and how documenting your journey (even the messy parts) builds true connection and community. Whether you're in the maker space, thinking of starting a side hustle, or love a good "accidental business" story—this one’s for you.

📲 Follow her at @WorkBootsandGlasses

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If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

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In this week’s episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome back our acrylic plug, Melody from CMB, for a long-overdue catch-up! 🎉

We dive into how her business has transformed since her first appearance (way back in Episode 78!), including her shift into Shopify expertise, scaling to a massive 14,000 sq ft space, and embracing the unpredictable pivots of entrepreneurship. 💼

We talk shop about the importance of diversifying beyond Etsy, the power of community and networking events like Next Level, and how building genuine friendships in your industry can lead to your next big move (hello, podcast studio!).

Whether you’re deep into laser making, dreaming of quitting Etsy, or just need a real conversation about growing pains and glows ups, this episode is full of relatable gems, laughs, and real talk.

🔥 Topics Covered:

Growing a laser business through connection

Pivoting from vinyl to acrylic to Shopify expert

Shopify Collective & apps every maker should know

Etsy warnings and why you need your own site

How networking events can change your business

The truth about trying and quitting product lines

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

Live from the Jamboree! This episode of The Riley Black Project is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes chaos, and real talk as Crystal and John host a special live recording during a laser maker Summer Camp. We’re sharing takeaways from teaching classes, navigating tech fails, and connecting with the incredible maker community IRL. Hear about the unexpected moments, what worked (and what really didn’t), and the magic that happens when online friends become in-person family.

Whether you were there with us or are just catching up, you’ll feel like part of the crew in this laid-back, laugh-out-loud recap of our biggest live audience yet. Plus, sneak peeks at what’s next for the community. Don’t miss the outtakes, the honesty, and the fun

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

Interested in Laser Maker Con? Use our link to become a VIP and take advantage of the fast action pass! Discount lasts just 20 mins, so act fast!

Https://www.lasermakercon.com/?affiliate=crystal_aguila

This week on The Riley Black Project, we welcome back the one and only Emily — better known as That Mom With a Laser! In this episode, we dive deep into the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of juggling life, content creation, and raising little makers in the laser world. From burnout and self-doubt to launching new creative ventures and navigating studio chaos, Emily shares what it really looks like behind the scenes.

We also talk:
• How transparency builds connection with your audience
• Letting your kids step into the content creation space
• Balancing business, family, and creative evolution
• Laser Maker Con updates and Emily’s upcoming plans
• Our new podcast studio and all the excitement around it!

Plus, we get real about the power of saying “no” in business and learning to ride the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship with a little humor and a lot of heart.

🎧 Stick around to the end for exclusive behind-the-scenes details and a laugh-out-loud Patreon bonus tour!

👇 Drop a comment and let us know how you relate to the creative chaos!

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

In this Episode of The Riley Black Project, Crystal and John drop a huge update — they're launching a brand-new rentable podcast & content creation studio in Sebastian, Florida! 🎉

This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the wild journey that led to Riley Black Studios — from a simple DM to securing the perfect space, making hard decisions, investing in a dream, and planning for the grand opening. It’s all about chasing passion, trusting timing, and taking smart risks in business.

👉 Whether you're a content creator, podcast host, small business owner, or just someone contemplating your next bold move — this one’s for you.

💥 Hear:

The full story behind Riley Black Studios

Why they almost said no to the opportunity

The mindset shifts that helped them say yes

How this will reshape their business model

What’s next: decor, buildout, bookings & a new relationship podcast!

🔗 Follow their new studio journey: @RileyBlackStudios

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

🎙️ In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Collin from Stencil Stop to dive into the art and business of laser-cut stencils, custom designs, and viral content. From humble beginnings to creating jaw-dropping multi-layered stencil art that’s turned heads on social media, Collin shares the evolution of his laser journey and how he’s built a full-time business around creativity, licensing integrity, and pure stencil mastery.

We explore:
🔥 The leap from side hustle to full-time stencil artist
💡 How custom packaging, viral art, and community trust played a role in growth
🧠 Why outsourcing was a game-changer for scaling
📦 The often-overlooked importance of shipping & packaging in small biz
🎨 Collin’s take on art vs. content and how it’s all helped grow his brand

Whether you're a laser owner, content creator, or someone dreaming of turning your creativity into a career—this episode will light a fire under you

IG & FB
Shop: @stencilstop
ATR: @madebycito

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome Bill and Anne of MBZ Designs to talk shop — from navigating laser upgrades and UV printing to the chaos of Amazon box piles and unexpected spider roommates. 🕷️

We dive deep into:
-The real-life realities of creating content when you don’t feel like it 🎥
-How the Glowforge “gateway drug” led to serious business upgrades 🔥
-Fiber internet woes, tech fails, and why backups save your sanity 💾
-Business partnerships, vendor collabs, and the power of networking 💡

The problem with black quarter-inch acrylic addiction... and what to do with it 😂

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us a text

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jess of Script & Grain — a former teacher turned full-time laser business owner, mom of five, and early riser (seriously... 4am!). She shares her journey from calligraphy and wedding signage to launching her own creative laser brand, all while juggling a big family and building a life of freedom.

We dive into:

-Her bold leap from teaching to entrepreneurship
-How maternity leave (or lack of it) shaped her decisions
-The power of collaboration in the maker community
-Why representation matters for creative kids
-How AI and audiobooks are transforming small biz owners
And yep... we even chat about weddings and go-away pricing 🤣

This one’s equal parts real talk, resource gold, and inspiration for any maker or creative on the rise.

👇 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway or favorite quote!

Support the show

If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject

Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful,
and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.